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Jeter: Trout 'can beat you in every way'

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Derek Jeter tossing a ball to fans Monday at Angel Stadium.

By Alden Gonzalez
/
MLB.com |

ANAHEIM -- The Southern California media learned two things about retiring Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter on Monday: He doesn't like the term "farewell tour," and he doesn't believe "hype" is an accurate description for what surrounds Mike Trout.

"I don't like the word hype around him," Jeter said prior to the opener of his final regular-season series at Angel Stadium. "It's all deserved. He can do everything. He can beat you in every way."

Trout grew up a Phillies fan in South New Jersey, but he idolized Jeter while growing up a shortstop, and told Jeter as much when the two met during the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City.

"It makes you feel good as a player when you have guys that come up and appreciate how you play the game, but he has a very, very bright future," Jeter said of Trout. "He's got a bright present, too."

Bright enough that the world has basically identified Trout, 22, as the new face of baseball; as the guy who will take the proverbial torch from Jeter and be the guy fans most identify with in this game.

Asked what sticks out most about Trout, Jeter, who will be honored by the Angels prior to Wednesday's game, said, "I don't think you pick one thing."

"It seems like he has a desire to keep improving," the Yankees' captain added. "He doesn't play the game like he knows he has it made. He plays hard. He runs every ball out, which when you've had the success like he's had for a couple of years, you like to see that. You like to see guys who play the game the right way."